John 3:2

“The same came to Jesus by night, etc.] Through fear of the Jews, of being reproached or turned out of his place by them; or through shame, that such a doctor as he was, should be known to go to Jesus of Nazareth, to be instructed by him; or lest he should offend any of his brethren of the sanhedrim: though some things may be said in favour of this conduct of Nicodemus; for since Christ would not trust himself with those that believed in him upon seeing his miracles, (<430223>John 2:23,24), among whom Nicodemus seems to be; or would not admit them into his company, and enter into a free conversation with him; it was necessary, that if he would have any discourse with him, that he should take…”

“came to Jesus by night--One of those superficial "believers" mentioned in Joh 2:23-24, yet inwardly craving further satisfaction, Nicodemus comes to Jesus in quest of it, but comes "by night" (see Joh 19:38-39; Joh 12:42); he avows his conviction that He was come from God--an expression never applied to a merely human messenger, and probably meaning more here--but only as "a teacher," and in His miracles he sees a proof merely that "God is with Him." Thus, while unable to repress his convictions, he is afraid of committing himself too far.”

“The same came to Jesus - The design of his coming seems to have been to inquire more fully of Jesus what was the doctrine which he came to teach. He seems to have been convinced that he was the Messiah, and desired to be further instructed in private respecting his doctrine, It was not usual for a man of rank, power, and riches to come to inquire of Jesus in this manner; yet we may learn that the most favorable opportunity for teaching such men the nature of personal religion is when they are alone. Scarcely any man, of any rank, will refuse to converse on this subject when addressed respectfully and tenderly in private. In the midst of their companions, or engaged in business, they may…”

“The same came - Through desire; but by night - Through shame: We know - Even we rulers and Pharisees. John 3:3”

“3:2 After dark: Nicodemus might have feared public association with Jesus. Night also symbolizes the realm of evil, untruth, and unbelief (9:4; 11:10; 13:30).”

“came: Joh 7:50, Joh 7:51, Joh 12:42, Joh 12:43, Joh 19:38, Joh 19:39; Jdg 6:27; Isa 51:7; Phi 1:14 Rabbi: Joh 3:26, Joh 1:38, Joh 20:16 we know: Mat 22:16; Mar 12:14 for: Joh 5:36, Joh 7:31, Joh 9:16, Joh 9:30-33, Joh 11:47, Joh 11:48, Joh 12:37, Joh 15:24; Act 2:22, Act 4:16, Act 4:17; Act 10:38 John 3:3”